Feather Fingergrass: an Emerging Problem in Orchards

Feather fingergrass, a summer annual weed native to warm temperate regions worldwide is becoming more and more common in the Sacramento Valley. It can be found in agricultural fields, orchards, roadsides and canals. This tuft forming grass, can be 1.5 to 2.5 feet tall and forms umbel like inflorescence: a cluster of short stalks originating from a common point, somewhat like umbrella ribs.

Feather fingergrass plant. Photo: J.M. DiTomaso.

Feather fingergrass is a tough weed and it can be difficult to control. In addition, cases of glyphosate resistant populations have been reported in other countries and thus, unfortunately, it may develop resistance in California too.

Feather fingergrass inflorescence. Photo: J.M. DiTomaso.

I am planning to conduct some herbicide screening trials to evaluate control options and efficacy and I am looking for possible co-operators in the Butte, Glenn & Tehama county area. If you are interested or would like to have some more information on feather fingergrass please send me an email.